We want to use the art of winemaking as a vessel for positive change.
The Cana Ranch Brand
In the spirit of the American west, cowboys adhered to a code that championed courage, aid to those in need, environmental respect, and unwavering loyalty to one's brand—a symbol of pride, duty, and dedication. Cana Ranch, with its flowing CR brand, is inspired by the legendary town of Cana, famed for the first miracle where water was transformed into wine. The name "Ranch" is a nod to the founders' roots in Oklahoma and Texas. Cana Ranch blends a rich heritage of stewardship and loyalty with the transformative art of winemaking. This fusion not only celebrates the craft but also stands as a beacon of change, growth, and a brighter future, dedicated to enriching the lives of adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD).
At Cana Ranch, we are committed to fostering inclusivity and empowerment for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Through social investment from our Partners, our goal is to secure the necessary resources to purchase a vineyard and winery situated in the scenic beauty of Napa Valley. Our overarching vision revolves around cultivating a supportive environment where these exceptional individuals can actively engage in every aspect of viticulture and winemaking, thereby creating enriching employment opportunities.
Meet the Founders
We embarked on the journey of Cana Ranch with a vision deeply rooted in our past experiences and a shared passion for making a meaningful difference. Growing up our early years were spent embracing the values of hard work, loyalty, and the importance of community—values that eventually guided us to the creation of Cana Ranch.
Tyler leveraged his Oklahoma State University education to carve out a successful path in the energy sector, developing key skills in business strategy, leadership, and planning. Yet, a deeper calling beckoned—a fusion of commercial savvy with passion for winemaking and social advocacy.
Kelly, a graduate of Davidson College and the University of Texas Medical Branch, is a dedicated Physician Assistant whose career has been defined by compassionate care and a commitment to service. With a strong clinical foundation and a natural gift for hospitality, she brings both expertise and warmth to Cana Ranch. Her ability to seamlessly blend professionalism with personal connection helps shape Cana Ranch into a place of excellence, inclusivity, and meaningful impact.
Together, we discovered a shared dream to create exquisite wines but also a place that offers a beacon of hope and opportunity for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD).
In 2024, we took the plunge, with our first vintage of Cana Ranch Cabernet. It is a labor of love, that extends beyond winemaking, its about developing a community and creating a space where every bottle of wine contributes to a greater cause.
As parents to our three energetic children, Henry, Hall, and Margaret, and as custodians of Cana Ranch, we dedicate ourselves to fostering a legacy marked by quality, empathy, and change. Cana Ranch represents more than just a wine; it embodies the strength of community, the warmth of inclusivity, and the timeless spirit of the regions we cherish.
“Our journey to founding Cana Ranch wasn't sparked by a personal connection to someone with intellectual or developmental disabilities (IDD). Instead, it began with a simple yet profound calling: to use the art of winemaking as a vessel for positive change. Our desire to understand the intersection of nonprofit ventures and commercial success led me (Tyler) to volunteer in Houston, Texas, where I worked alongside IDD individuals. This experience was enlightening, not just for the difference it made in their lives, but for the immense joy and fulfillment it brought to mine. Cana Ranch was born from this deep-seated desire to blend daily joy with meaningful action.”
— Tyler & Kelly Mullman, Founders
Meet the Winemaker
Richard Frederick is a distinguished Napa Valley winemaker celebrated for his mastery in crafting small-production, ultra-luxury wines. With over 15 years of experience in the wine industry, he has consistently excelled in leading winemaking teams, managing prestigious vineyards, and enhancing wine quality through innovative and meticulous practices.
Richard’s illustrious career includes serving as head winemaker at renowned wineries like Vine Cliff Winery and Revana Family Vineyard, where his exceptional creations garnered critical acclaim, earning numerous 90+ point scores from esteemed critics such as Jeb Dunnuck, Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate, and Wine Spectator.
A graduate of Kansas State University with a B.S. in Applied Psychology, Richard has been mentored by legendary winemakers Heidi Barrett and Thomas Rivers Brown, refining his craft under their guidance. Beyond winemaking, he has made significant contributions as a vineyard consultant, empowering teams and owners with expertise in vineyard management and cellar operations.
Celebrated for his precision, innovation, and unwavering commitment to excellence, Richard continues to push boundaries in the wine industry, seamlessly merging traditional artistry with cutting-edge techniques to create wines of unparalleled quality.
